THE NEUROBIOLOGY OF DEPRESSION AND NEW TREATMENT STRATEGIES: UNLOCKING THE MIND’S HIDDEN BATTLES

Abstract
Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting more than 280 million people. Traditionally considered a psychological disorder, recent advancements in neuroscience have revealed complex neurobiological underpinnings, including disruptions in neurotransmitter systems, neuroinflammation, and structural brain changes. This article explores the current understanding of the neurobiology of depression and evaluates innovative treatment strategies, such as ketamine, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and psilocybin-based therapy. By bridging classical approaches with novel discoveries, this review aims to shed light on the future direction of depression management.
Keywords
Depression, neurobiology, BDNF, HPA axis, neuroinflammation, ketamine, psilocybin, transcranial magnetic stimulation, treatment-resistant depression, mental health, brain plasticity, monoamine hypothesis, personalized psychiatry
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